Bastions of Power

Castles were bastions of power. Yet, what was life like behind their walls? Part 1 of our documentary follows their development from simple wooden fortifications to the most elaborate strongholds and residences. Part 2 examines their military function from the 11th to the 16th century. When the enemy was at their gates, they had to withstand battering rams, catapults and sapping which called for ever new solutions by their defenders until, finally, large-calibre cannons spelt their end.

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Created By
Status	Returning Series
Original Name	Bastions of Power
First Air Date	June 13, 2020
Last Air Date	June 14, 2020
Seasons	1
Episodes	2
Episode Runtime	0min
Language	—
Original Language	English
Production Countries	—
Production Companies
Networks	ZDF

S01E02

Enemy at the Gate

Castles were bastions of power and the site of countless battles. Our documentary examines their military function from the 11th to the 16th century. When the enemy was at their gates, they had to withstand battering rams, catapults and sapping which called for ever new solutions by their defenders until, finally, large-calibre cannons spelt their end. Our journey takes us all through Europe, while historians and archaeologists will guide us through a fascinating panorama of medieval warfare.

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